The Technical College System of Georgia announced that Greene County will launch one of Georgia’s three new College and Career Academies. The announcement came with a $3 million grant from the Technical College of System Georgia. Lt. Governor Cagle praised Greene County Schools for their successful partnership with Athens Technical College.

“I am excited that Greene County will build Georgia’s next College and Career Academy,” said Lt. Governor Casey Cagle. “In today’s rapidly evolving economy, expanding the proven success of our CCAs is more important than ever so that we can provide all Georgia’s students with the relevant skills they need. To grow a workforce that is second to none, I am committed to providing every student across our state access to a College and Career Academy by 2020.”

“Greene County College and Career Academy is bringing together leaders from our community to develop a skilled workforce that will allow our economy to thrive for years to come,” said Senator Burt Jones. “I’m proud of Greene County Schools, local industry, and the many partners who are making this significant investment in educating our students for the jobs that will lead our community’s growth in the future. Thanks to Lt. Governor Cagle for his leadership in establishing Georgia’s College and Career Academy Network, and for once again recognizing the success of a worthy Middle Georgia school system with this honor.” 

Lt. Governor Cagle praised the partnership between local school systems, technical colleges, and business, which has proven effective in increasing student achievement and workforce development across our state. Because of Lt. Governor Cagle’s initiative, there will be 43 College and Career Academies in Georgia. Approximately 20,000 students are enrolled in College and Career Academies across the state, boasting graduation rates as high as 99%.

College and Career Academies are effectively developing programs to train high school students for in-demand careers. Students find that challenging, hands-on programs provide greater relevancy and value, which not only lead to higher graduation rates but also rewarding professional opportunities. The specified training for students is attractive to local businesses, and communities benefit from developing a highly-trained and skilled workforce.

“Our students deserve every opportunity for academic success – and with the creation of Georgia’s three new College and Career Academies, we are one step closer to ensuring all students across our state have access to these world-class learning institutions by 2020,” said Lt. Governor Cagle. “These school systems have embraced innovation in the classroom, bringing business and community leaders together to ignite economic growth for many years to come.”